Afghan and coalition forces raided compounds near the village of Darnami, in Khowst province, early this morning, killing four suspected terrorists and an adolescent girl. Before the raid, combined forces requested the peaceful surrender of people within the compounds. But the suspected terrorists refused to comply and began firing.

"Our condolences go out to the family and friends of the young girl who was killed," said Army Col. Thomas Collins, coalition spokesman.

During the engagements four military-aged males and a 13-year-old girl were killed, and an 8-year-old girl was wounded.

"Enemies of the Afghan government continue to place women and children in harm's way by conducting illegal activities within the common living areas, placing entire families at risk," Collins said.

The compound was a refuge for terrorist facilitators operating in Khowst province who pose a serious threat to peace and stability in Afghanistan, military officials said.

The combined forces treated the wounded girl and took her to a coalition medical facility for treatment. A family member escorted the injured girl to the coalition hospital.

No Afghan or coalition forces were injured during the operation. As a matter of policy, the coalition is investigating the civilian casualties, U.S. officials said.

A day earlier, Afghan National Police arrested six Taliban extremists suspected of murdering five family members in the Narang district on Dec. 8. Police forces confiscated weapons and explosives from four of the suspects, acting Police Chief Abdul Sabur Yarollah said.

“Unfortunately, (Afghan National Police) could not prevent this heinous crime, but hopefully these extremists will be prevented from ever again victimizing innocent teachers who are dedicated to the education of Afghan children and helping to create a better future for Afghanistan,” Army Maj. Gen. Benjamin C. Freakley, commander of Combined Joint Task Force 76, said.

Recently published Taliban rules of conduct call for threats, beatings and murders of educators who teach in Afghan schools, military officials said.